Fine Dining Server Salary in Suffolk, VA
Fine Dining Servers in Suffolk, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, which translates to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Suffolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for fine dining service roles in the local hospitality scene.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Suffolk, VA?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Suffolk varies with experience and employer, but typically ranges as follows across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Suffolk Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers in Suffolk often earn tips in addition to their base pay. Typically, they can make an extra $10 or more per hour in tips depending on the establishment and clientele, which significantly boosts their total earnings.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Suffolk vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of about $21.14 per hour, or roughly $43,971.20 annually.
In comparison, Fine Dining Servers in Suffolk make less, at $11.00 per hour and approximately $22,880.00 per year. This difference is often due to variations in local cost of living, market demand, and hospitality industry dynamics.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Suffolk for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Fine Dining Servers:
- Downtown Suffolk: $12.00 per hour
- Harbour View: $11.50 per hour
These local variations reflect differing market conditions and clientele in each neighborhood, with Downtown Suffolk generally offering the highest pay.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Suffolk?
Several factors affect how much a Fine Dining Server can earn in Suffolk:
- Experience and Skill Level: Servers with more years in fine dining and advanced customer service skills tend to command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale and exclusive restaurants typically offer better base salaries and larger tips compared to casual dining venues.
- Reputation and Clientele: Serving high-profile or affluent clients can increase tip income substantially.
- Shift Times: Evening or weekend shifts may come with higher tip opportunities and possibly increased base pay.
- Certifications: Formal training and certifications related to hospitality and alcohol service may enhance job prospects and pay.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Suffolk
Starting a career as a Fine Dining Server in Suffolk involves a few important steps:
- Gain Relevant Training: Enroll in culinary arts or hospitality programs such as the Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training including fine dining service techniques.
- Consider Adult Education Courses: Suffolk Public Schools Adult Education Culinary Classes provide foundational skills suitable for fine dining environments.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The Virginia Food Handler Certification is mandatory for all food service employees, while the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification helps servers responsibly manage alcohol service.
- Build Experience: Starting in entry-level service positions and gaining hands-on experience is crucial to mastering the skills needed for fine dining service.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Suffolk
The following employers are known for hiring Fine Dining Servers in Suffolk:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Bickford Senior Living
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Suffolk Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically find work in various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer the highest earning potential due to upscale clientele and larger tips.
- Casual Dining Venues: Servers here may earn lower base pay and tips compared to fine dining but benefit from greater employment availability.
- Banquet Halls and Event Venues: Work can be seasonal and may command higher hourly rates during busy events.
- Senior Living Facilities: Some, like Bickford Senior Living, employ servers for their dining services with varying pay scales.
The type of establishment strongly impacts the overall income of a Fine Dining Server, with prestigious settings offering more lucrative compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Suffolk for Fine Dining Servers
For those interested in careers similar to Fine Dining Server, there are several related roles in the hospitality sector worth considering:
These include Banquet Server, Server, and Bartender roles, which share similar skills and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Suffolk
Fine Dining Servers in Suffolk should be aware of federal and state regulations affecting their employment:
- Explore labor laws and wage standards at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Find Virginia-specific employment regulations and worker rights on the Virginia government website.